Man who shot trooper 13 years ago dies in prison after scuffle with staff

WELCH — Published reports began to emerge last week that David Munday, an inmate at Mount Olive Correctional Center, died as a result of a “medical episode” that occurred on June 12. According to a spokesperson for the state Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety, Munday had injured two Mount Olive staff members during a struggle. The “episode” occurred after Munday was restrained.

“Mr. Munday attacked a female counselor at Mount Olive around 6 p.m. last Friday,” Lawrence Messina stated in response to an e-mail message seeking comment. Messina is spokesman for the West Virginia Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety. “Other staff promptly came to her aid. As staff confronted and tried to subdue Mr. Munday, he injured a correctional officer.”

Messina stated that Munday continued to fight with staff as he was taken to the medical unit for an evaluation. “As he was still combative, he was placed in a special restraining chair. Once restrained, he appeared to have some sort of medical episode. Staff rendered medical aid, but Mr. Munday died.”

He said that the injured staff were each taken to a hospital. “We are thankful that neither suffered life-threatening injuries,” he said. “Both an internal and a State Police investigation are ongoing. Investigators are also awaiting results from the autopsy and associated toxicological testing.”

Munday, 50, of Hedgesville was convicted of shooting a West Virginia state trooper who had responded to a Berkeley County residence on Oct. 10, 2002. Trooper First Class R.J. “Bobby” Elswick and three other troopers responded to a domestic call at the residence. Munday, who was concealed in a bush near the residence, shot Elswick in the head with a rifle.

“They called Bobby Friday night to tell him,” Elswick’s brother, Alan Elswick said. “He’s doing real good. He’s a miracle. He’s amazing.”

Trooper Elswick started his career in law enforcement at the Welch Police Department, but later went to the academy and joined the West Virginia State Police. He was paralyzed for a time after he was wounded, but with the loving support of his family, friends and fellow troopers, he responded to therapy.

“I know Bobby has been in the prayers of many people who know him,” Alan Elswick said. “I want to ... Our whole family wants to thank them all for their prayers.”

— Contact Bill Archer at barcher@bdtonline.com